If you are considering a handsfree pump you might be torn between two of the most popular options currently on the market. I am pumped to share with you the difference between the Willow 3.0 and Elvie. So let’s jump into it.
COST & WHAT’S INCLUDED
Elvie
The Elvie can be sold as a single or double breast pump.
$549 (double breast pump)
$299 (single breast pump)
Double breast pump comes with:
- Two hubs (the motors)
- 4 5-ounce bottles
- 2 24mm breast shields
or 2 28mm breast shields
- 4 valves
- 4 spouts
- 4 seals
- 4 storage lids
- 4 bra adjusters
- 2 USB charging cables
- 2 carry bags
Willow
Can only be sold as a double.
Double breast pump comes with:
- 2 Willow pumps
- 2 flanges in the size you’ve selected
- 2 flextubes
- 24 4-ounce milk bags
- 2 cleaning brushes
- 1 charger
- Reusable milk containers can be purchased separately for $50, and a package of bags is $23.99 for 48.
As you can see the Elvie comes with a second set of parts which can make pumping on the go easier without having to find a spot to wash parts after every use or be stuck buying a second set right off the bat. Also, the Willow only comes with one charger whereas the Elvie comes with two charging cables.
Winner for cost: Elvie
BATTERY LIFE
Elvie
The Elvie takes about two hours to fully charge. When it is fully charged you can get about three, maybe four, 20-30 minute pumps before needing to recharge.
Willow
The Willow takes about two hours to fully charge. When it is fully charged you can get about five 20-30 minute pumps before needing to recharge
Winner for battery life: Willow
Warranty
Elvie
2 year warranty on the Hub and a 90 day warranty on the washable components
Willow
1 year warranty on the pump and a 90 day warranty on most accessories (flanges, flextubes, container, and container inserts)
Winner for warranty: Elvie
APPEARANCE
The Willow and Elvie are both designed to be worn discretely. However, after having worn both, the winner for low profile goes to ELVIE hands down.
I also found it was hard to see how much I had pumped in the Willow vs the Elvie. The Elvie’s bottles are clear and on the bottom so you can see how much milk you have pumped. Whereas, the Willow containers are on the inside of the pump and hard to see. There is an app for both that tracks how much you are pumping, but I had difficulties with both apps recording accurately.
Winner for appearance: Elvie
SOUND
Both are marketed to be quiet. However, after using both I have to say that there is nothing quiet about the Willow. I always joke that I sound like a printer when I am using my Willow. On the other hand, the Elvie is very quiet and nearly soundless.
Winner for sound: Elvie
STORAGE
Elvie
Five ounces
Willow
Four Ounces
Winner for storage: Elvie
CONVENIENCE
Both pumps are designed to be cord free and hands free. Although, as a doula who moves around in the birth room and often times leaning over, I needed a pump that could accommodate lots of movement without leaking, the Willow provides just this. When using the bag option, I can be in any position and not worry about leaking. The Elvie will spill if leaning over or really in any position that is not sitting or standing.
Winner for convenience: Willow
PUMP STRENGTH & CONTROLS
Elvie
220 mmHg
2-phase pumping with 7 adjustable suction settings
Willow
245 mmHg
Smart Suction technology adjusts based on your preferences to increase output; 7 levels of suction including a sensitivity setting
Winner for pump strength & controls: Willow
Overall winner? For me personally, because I am an exclusive pumper and my body has the need for the stronger suck for better output, I find myself grabbing my Willow more often than my Elvie. However, I don’t think you could go wrong with either one. We have clients that use both and honestly love the one they have chosen.
